Expectations, Questions With Stage IV Lung Cancer

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A dear friend was diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer last August, after chest pains that led to a diagnosis of pericarditis, and then to diagnosis of stage IV. He participated in a clinical trial, but follow-up visits showed increased tumor activity and he was referred to his physician. His doctor did an MRI and diagnosed brain metastases, and my friend has just undergone CyberKnife radiation therapy to two sites and anticipates chemotherapy soon, carboplatin and Taxol (paclitaxel). What can he expect in the future with this plan? Does M. D. Anderson have anything to offer him? What questions should he be asking? Can you suggest any further research?

Knowing what to expect from cancer treatment is nearly impossible. Your friend has stage IV lung cancer, and the prognosis for most people in this situation is poor. With that said, the treatment they are offering him is very reasonable, and is the appropriate next step if he is in otherwise good health. This may offer some long-term benefit, even if it does not result in a cure.

The questions I would ask my doctor are the very same ones you are asking me. I cannot comment on what other clinical trials or treatments are being offered at other cancer centers; however, I can suggest that you search clinicaltrials.gov or M. D. Anderson’s own site for more information.

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